Emirates Says It Could Seek New Boeing Design

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Dubai's fast-growing airline Emirates says it would consider replacing some of its fleet of 175 Boeing 777s if the plane manufacturer designs a new version of the long-haul aircraft.

The statement Thursday from Emirates President Tim Clark suggests a possible change of a major Boeing order by the Dubai-based carrier last year, when it signed a deal for 50 long-range 777-300 ER planes worth about $18 billion.

Clark says Emirates could consider changing its order if Boeing approves the next generation for the wide-body jet, which would likely not be available until 2019 at the earliest.

Emirates is locked in a close rivalry with other Gulf carries, Abu Dhabi-based Etihad and Qatar Airways, which are also seek to expand their fleets and routes.